EAGLES GOT A STEAL IN RB KERRYON JOHNSON: WHERE DOES HE FIT?

By Michael Bennett

The Eagles signed 5-11, 205-pound running back Kerryon Johnson earlier this week.

And, while it’s too soon to really tell — mandatory drills are still a month off with rooks coming in Friday — this might be the steal of the year.

Johnson had a down third season after two substantial years in 2018 and 2019.

The Detroit Lions parted ways with the former second-round running back, an unexpected decision given the minimal depth in their backfield.

While Johnson’s role had been significantly reduced from his rookie season, there was plenty of reason to believe he would have been a contributor on offense.

There is the possibility that Johnson asked to be waived in order to compete for a starting role elsewhere.

Johnson had a single year left on his rookie deal, and for running backs especially, capitalizing on that second contract is crucial.

Perhaps unfortunately for him, the Eagles claimed him, and he might be in a worse position. Much like Detroit, the Eagles have a young running back as their top option, Miles Sanders. Add in fifth rounder Kenneth Gainwell, Jordan Howard, Boston Scott, and former Lion Jason Huntley, and you could argue there’s more competition for touches.